| From the Editor’s Desk
Celebrating 75 years of hydropower progress
t is with great pride that we present this 75th Anniversary issue of International Water Power & Dam Construction. For three- quarters of a century, our publication has chronicled the remarkable journey of the hydropower and dams industry – an odyssey defined by amazing engineering feats,
technological breakthroughs, and an unwavering commitment to harnessing the power of water for human progress. As we reflect on the industry’s illustrious history, our minds are transported to the mid-20th century, when visionary projects like the Hoover Dam and Itaipu captured the world’s imagination. These engineering marvels stood as testaments to humanity’s relentless pursuit of clean, renewable energy, paving the way for a future powered by the mighty forces of nature. Over the decades, the hydropower industry has
undergone a profound transformation, driven by technological advancements that have reshaped the very fabric of how we generate and harness this renewable resource. From the development of more efficient turbines and generators to the integration of cutting-edge digital technologies, innovation has been the industry’s constant companion, propelling it towards new heights of efficiency, sustainability, and environmental stewardship. Yet, our journey has not been without its challenges. As environmental awareness grew, the industry faced scrutiny over the ecological impacts of large dams. However, with resilience and adaptability, we embraced change, shifting towards smaller-scale, run- of-river projects, implementing mitigation measures like fish ladders and environmental flow releases, and prioritizing stakeholder consultations and responsible hydropower development. This commitment to environmental stewardship has been a hallmark of the industry’s evolution, reflecting our deep understanding that sustainable progress is
inextricably linked to the preservation of our planet’s delicate ecosystems. As we turn our gaze towards the future, the
hydropower industry stands poised to play a pivotal role in the global transition towards renewable energy systems. With its unique ability to provide reliable, clean energy and its integration with other renewable technologies like wind and solar, hydropower is emerging as a key player in achieving a sustainable, resilient, and carbon-neutral future, with a particular focus on the benefits of pumped storage. In this milestone issue, we celebrate the industry’s
remarkable 75-year journey, honouring the pioneers who dared to dream and the innovators who continue to push the boundaries of what is possible. We pay tribute to the engineers, scientists, and visionaries whose unwavering dedication has shaped the course of this industry, leaving an indelible mark on the global energy landscape. As we look ahead, we remain steadfast in our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and global progress. Together, the industry will continue to harness the power of water, ensuring that hydropower remains a driving force in the pursuit of a cleaner, greener, and more prosperous world for generations to come.
Join us as we embark on this celebratory journey,
revisiting the industry’s triumphs, acknowledging its challenges, and embracing the potential that lies ahead.
Carrieann Stocks
www.waterpowermagazine.com | May 2024 | 3
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52 |
Page 53 |
Page 54 |
Page 55 |
Page 56 |
Page 57 |
Page 58 |
Page 59 |
Page 60 |
Page 61 |
Page 62 |
Page 63 |
Page 64 |
Page 65 |
Page 66 |
Page 67 |
Page 68 |
Page 69 |
Page 70 |
Page 71 |
Page 72 |
Page 73 |
Page 74 |
Page 75 |
Page 76 |
Page 77
